Remote Control via Local File Replication
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote device control methods consume significant network bandwidth due to continuous transmission of large graphical data to refresh displays, which can hinder other network functions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where remote devices mimic each other's file displays and communicate non-graphical commands, such as pointer movements and typing, to reduce bandwidth usage by retaining files on respective computers and sending only necessary data packets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the base station computer continually updates the graphical display on the astronaut explorer's computer, then the assistant and astronaut explorer can view the same instructions and pictures at the same time, but the network bandwidth consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Each device maintains a local copy of the files (instructions, pictures) and displays them locally. Instead of transmitting graphical data continuously, the system copies the same files to both the base station computer and the astronaut explorer's computer, allowing both users to view identical content simultaneously without requiring continuous graphical data transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential control information (non-graphical commands such as pointer movements, keyboard inputs, and file navigation commands) from the complete display data. By separating the control commands from the graphical display data, the system transmits only the minimal necessary information over the network while both devices maintain independent displays of the full graphical content.
2Speed
If large amounts of graphical data are sent over the network to refresh displays, then real-time synchronized control is achieved, but other network functions are hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Both devices possess complete local copies of all files and display them independently. This eliminates the need to transmit graphical data for display refresh, as each device already has the full content locally stored and can display it without network dependency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by downloading and storing complete file copies on both devices before remote control sessions begin. This advance preparation ensures that all graphical content is already available locally, eliminating the need for continuous graphical data transmission during the control session and reserving network bandwidth for essential control commands.
3Ease of operation
If the computer is connected through a network to a base station computer for remote control, then the astronaut explorer can access instructions and pictures, but the space suit prevents easy manipulation of the computer
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides bidirectional control capability where either the astronaut explorer or the base station operator can control either device (astronaut computer or base station computer). Both devices function as both control inputs and display outputs, creating a universal control system that adapts to the user's needs regardless of location or equipment limitations.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for controlling remote devices includes two networked computers. The first computer displays a first file that is stored on the first computer and the second computer displays a second file that is stored on the second computer. The computers send non-graphical commands back and forth to page up or down, zoom, or pan the displayed files in response to commands input into either of the computers. This allows an operator at either computer to view output corresponding to the commands input into the other computer. The first and second files are essentially the same and are retained on the respective computers, so there is no need to send relatively large graphical data packets over the network. Use of relatively small non-graphical data packets reduces the network bandwidth used.